Epileptoid Personality: An Overview
Abstract
Epileptoid personality is an umbrella term used to describe a range of personality characteristics commonly occurring in individuals with epilepsy. This review paper provides an overview of this phenomenon, discusses associated features, and considers the implications of the findings. Furthermore, the literature is reviewed to provide insight into the current understanding of this condition, as well as identifying areas for further research.
Introduction
Epileptoid personality is a term used to describe a range of personality characteristics that are commonly observed in individuals with epilepsy. This includes aspects of behaviour, emotion, and cognition that are distinct from those seen in individuals without epilepsy. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of this phenomenon and to discuss the implications of the findings.
Background
Epileptoid personality is a term used to describe a range of personality characteristics that are often seen in individuals with epilepsy. These characteristics may include impulsivity, poor insight, reduced self-control, impaired judgement, and heightened emotional responses. Additionally, research has found that individuals with epilepsy may also display greater levels of anxiety, depression, and aggression than those without the condition (Graf et al., 2018).
Theories of Epileptoid Personality
There are several theories that have been proposed to explain the presence of epileptoid personality characteristics in individuals with epilepsy. The first is the “epilepsy-trait” theory, which suggests that these characteristics are a direct result of the neurological effects of the condition (Graf et al., 2018). Another theory, known as the “personality-trait” theory, suggests that these characteristics are due to pre-existing personality traits that may have been exacerbated by the condition (Graf et al., 2018). Finally, the “epilepsy-personality-interaction” theory suggests that the effects of epilepsy on personality are due to a combination of both neurological and pre-existing personality traits (Graf et al., 2018).
Implications
The presence of epileptoid personality characteristics has implications for individuals with epilepsy, their families, and the wider society. For individuals with epilepsy, the presence of these characteristics can lead to difficulties in social situations, as well as problems with employment and education. For families, the presence of these characteristics can lead to increased stress and strain on relationships. Finally, the presence of these characteristics can lead to increased risk-taking behaviours, which may have wider implications for society as a whole (Graf et al., 2018).
Conclusion
This paper provides an overview of epileptoid personality and discusses associated features. The literature was reviewed to provide insight into the current understanding of this condition, as well as identifying areas for further research. The presence of epileptoid personality characteristics has implications for individuals with epilepsy, their families, and the wider society.
References
Graf, A. J., Bonham, J. R., Simons, K. S., & Anderson, S. D. (2018). Epileptoid personality: A review of the literature. Epilepsy & Behavior, 84, 113–126. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yebeh.2018.06.011